Venuti’s Banquet and Ristorante Wedding

“It’s you and me, moving at the speed of light into eternity, yeah Tonight is the night to join me in the middle of ecstasy” Chris Brown, “Forever”

Having known Ken through the similar dance circles we’ve been a part for two decades, and having watched his love for Judith grow from the moment he first went out with her, it was an exhilarating feeling when he asked if I would photograph their mid-Summer wedding.

And what most glorious day it was! There’s rarely been more picturesque weather for a wedding. Bright beautiful skies, with just enough cloud cover to keep everyone comfortable indicated the day that was to come.

Heading over to the bridal suite to meet with Judith and her bridesmaids before the ceremony, Judith looked stunning! It wasn’t the dress. It wasn’t the make-up. Though they were certainly remarkable! What made Judith so stunning was that gorgeous smile she had, broadcasting her love for Ken, and for the support of her family and friends, as the day started to play out. I captured some amazing images of Judith, wrapping up with a few minutes to spare before it was time to say “I do”.

A concise wedding ceremony was highlighted by jokes from the priest, and an almost never-ending gaze between the two sweethearts (cue “Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You,” by Frankie Valli). After vows, rings, and the official pronouncement as husband and wife, not only did I get the traditional first kiss shot, but I ran quickly behind the ceremony altar, to get a unique (see below) shot of them kissing, with their family and friends cheering them on.

The gorgeous weather continued and we headed outside to do some family portraits before it was off to party! The group shots were a blast! Outrageously-funny personalities, kid shenanigans, guys messing with each other—all captured during the family shots, and all contributing to an off-the-charts vibe that was punctuating the day.

And then it was off to Venuti’s. It is simply one of the most gorgeous locations I’ve ever had the pleasure to take wedding reception pictures.

While others mingled and gathered in anticipation of their grand entrance, I took Ken and Judith to the staircase (a ᰴmust-have” area to shoot at Venuti’s) to capture how handsome and beautiful (respectively) they looked. And just like their family, they allowed their beautiful personalities to shine bright, as I captured some wonderful portraits, and a few silly moments of them (Ken has a penchant for biting garters…go figure).

After pictures, it was time for dinner. Ken and Judith kicked off the party, entering to Chris Brown’s “Forever”. As the song played, the couple hit the dance floor immediately for a hybrid first dance that include some basic freestyling, and a little West Coast Swing thrown in for good measure.

A cake cutting, and a few celebratory speeches later, and the party kicked into full gear. For nearly three hours, the dance floor was filled with a killer combination of pop hits, salsa music, belly rubbers, and more.

If you were there, you know how much fun the evening was. If you weren’t, I hope you have an idea of how much of an enjoyable day it was. And I wish a beautiful, bright, future to Ken and Judith as the next chapter of their lives begin!

“No ‘if’s, ‘and’s or ‘maybe’s, I’m releasing my heart and it’s feeling amazing…” — Chris Brown, “Forever”